You can now take a train through North Korea, but don’t try to liberate anyone

Tempting, isn’t it?

Have you ever wondered what North Korea is beyond the stories of detained tourists and Kim-Jong Un? Thanks to Korya Tours and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, you can now find out.

The tour company, run by Britons based out of Beijing, has launched the “Eastern Adventure by Rail”, a tour that takes from Pyongyang to Chongjin on the northeast coast of North Korea. This area was previously accessible only by air, so you could be among the first foreigners to on this route. You will be travelling in vintage ’70s train carriages with Korean diesel locomotives and a fully-functioning restaurant car.

The company assures the safety of the passengers, as long as the rules of the DPRK are closely followed. This includes strictly following their photography protocols and not criticising the DPRK. The FAQ section of Koryo Tours explicitly states that since the North Korean guides will “not try to brainwash you… don’t try to ‘liberate’ their minds in return, it is disrespectful, will breed resentment and cause irritation”. The United States still warns against travel into North Korea and stating that there several foreigners have been detained for no reason before.

The tour costs EUR 2,890 (Rs2,01,990) and starts with the pre-tour meeting in Beijing on 1 October. It includes flights to Pyongyang, most meals, accommodation, and entry fees. The visa costs an additional EUR 50.